Survivors display talent at Cancer Society Thrivers Dinner

(CMR) The Cayman Islands Cancer Society (CICS) annual Thrivers Dinner took a new approach this year, celebrating the unwavering strength of the thrivers in the form of a talent competition dubbed ‘Survivors Got Talent.’

Held on Thursday, June 22, the event took place in the stunning Orchid Ballroom at the Marriott Beach Resort. Over 250 guests, including more than 125 survivors, spent the evening celebrating the lives of those who had beat cancer.

The popular event was well-attended, bringing together survivors from across the island, some of whom celebrated more than 25 years of being cancer-free. In keeping with the event’s theme, guests were wowed with rhyme and verse, lively dance moves, and sweet-sounding melodies as the survivors showed off their talent.

Although no single winner was awarded, the judges were duly impressed, giving high scores to all the participants. Musical entertainment was provided by Euphoria, which featured George Jones, Annette Bodden, and Antonia Hebert. Zumbayanihan and Proud Phil’s Dance Troupe elevated the celebrations with their high-energy dance moves.

In addressing the survivors, Dr. Pooja Monteiro, Consultant Gynaecologist at Health City and Keynote Speaker, called cancer ‘a huge curveball’ that was thrown into their lives, testing their limits to no end. She congratulated them on not giving up, then charged them to pay it forward.

She stated, “As thrivers, you have a responsibility to share your stories, to lend a helping hand, and to inspire others who are just beginning their own battles. Your journey is not just a personal triumph; it is a gift that can ignite hope in the hearts of those who need it most.”

Cayman Islands Cancer Society Board Member, Rebekah Brooks, affirmed the charity’s commitment to ensuring that those with the greatest need for critical cancer care are able to access it.

“We’re acting now to stop those in our community from dying from cancer and will continue to take necessary action in the future, bringing together those affected by the disease and all those working to stop it,” she said.

Annette Smith and Shevan Melbourne were lucky winners of two free Executive Health Checks courtesy of Health City. Health City remains a committed partner of the Cancer Society and has been the headline sponsor of the Cancer Thrivers Dinner since 2019.